Hot Video Alert: Dan Black featuring Kelis - Hearts

I feel like I've been raving on and on about British-born/Paris-based singer/songwriter/producer Dan Black for YEARS, but really it's only been four years?  Ever since I heard his BRILLIANT, never officially released "HYPNTZ" (which ultimately turned into the single "Symphonies") I've been obsessed with Mr. Black, with my obsession coming to a head during the Robyn + Kelis All Hearts Tour in 2010, wherein Black was one of the openers (along with a pre-"Like A G6" famous Far East Movement).  Witnessing Black do his thing live was ALL that I needed to see to convince me that this guy was a musician to watch out for.  Now, three years after dropping his debut album here in America, Black is BACK with a beautiful new single, "Hearts," which sees a reunion of sorts with All Hearts Tour-mate and Kaleidoscope-lovin', Wanderland dwelling, Tasty Milkshake-slurpin', indie pop DIVA extraordinaire, 'Kelis (Was Here)' who's 2010 album, Flesh Tone, remains one of my favs to this day.  Check out "Hearts" below the cut.

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Dan Black Returns with 'RAW' New Single; Hints at Kelis Collaboration

Electro hipsterpop singer/songwriter Dan Black recently unveiled some details about his forthcoming new album, including a planned duet with electroGODDESS Kelis.  While the as-yet-untitled album's first single, "RAW" won't be dropping digitally until July 31st, you can catch a sneak peak of the new track in a recently released video promoting the new Absolut flavor of vodka, Caipiroska.  The video features Black hard at work in his Paris-based studio, putting the finishing touches on his new single.  While there's not much to go on just yet, all signs point to this being another flawless showcase of Dan Black's intelligent pop prowess.

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Dan Black To Headline at NYC's Bowery Ballroom, Premieres 'Alone' Video

Yay Dan Black! This is HUGE! Dan Black will be headlining at New York City's prestigious Bowery Ballroom on September 9th, kicking off New York Fashion Week. Brilliant! Tickets are only $13 in advance ($15 at the door) so what are you waiting for? If you haven't seen Black perform live yet, you're in for a treat. Seriously. The energy and talent that this guy exudes is MASSIVE. He needs to be HUGE right now and this headlining gig in NYC is another step closer to that hugeness.

In other Dan Black news, his new single "Alone" will be digitally released (via The Hours label) on August 24th (next Tuesday) in the U.S. and August 31st everywhere else.  It's always been one of my favorite tracks off of ((un)) and it's likely going to be one of yours too.  The video (which Black premiered on MTV) was created by Chic & Artistic, the same creative force behind Black's 2 x MTV Video Music Award-nominated "Symphonies." Sounds like another visual smash.  In addition to the video, the release will feature a remix by MJ Cole and a new B-Side "Liz and Johnny."

Check out Dan Black in all his hipster-deliciousness in the "Alone" video and make sure you download "Alone" when it's released next Tuesday! OH! And for an extra special treat, check out some of Black's performance at this year's Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago! HOT!  Check out Dan Black's tour dates HERE.

Dan Black - Subterranean - MTV Shows

Check out Dan Black on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//VEVO

Dan Black Nominated For Two '2010 MTV Video Music Awards'

A big 'CONGRATULATIONS' are in order for Mr. Dan Black, who was just nominated for TWO "2010 MTV Music Video Awards."  That's pretty huge for an artist still fairly unknown here in America.  Black was nominated in the "Best Breakthrough" and "Best SFX (Special Effects)" categories for his stunning video "Symphonies."  Congratulations sir! Well deserved!



Black's got some stiff competition in both categories, going up against Lady Gaga, Eminem, MUSE and Green Day in the "Best SFX" category and Gorillaz feat. Bobby Womack and Mos Def, Coldplay and The Black Keys for "Breakthrough Video."  While not necessarily a shoe-in, "Symphonies" certainly stands a good chance of winning.  The video pays homage to "the creativity of film credits" and was produced by Chic & Artistic (Black's visual collaborator).  "Symphonies" was the first North American single off Black's debut ((un)), released on The Hours label, a Universal subsidiary.  Dan Black fans can vote for "Symphonies" now on vma.mtv.com until the live show on September 12th so get voting! In addition, fans signed up with Verizon Wireless can vote in all categories by texting VMA to 97979 (standard message rates apply). The “2010 MTV Video Music Awards” will air live from Nokia Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, September 12 at 9:00PM.

If you haven't been fortunate enough to see Dan Black live yet DO IT NOW. This past weekend he appeared at the prestigious Lollapalooza festival in Chicago, performing with the always amazing Dragonette.  Tonight he continues his mini tour with Dragonette in lovely Cleveland Heights, OH at Grog Shop and catch Black tomorrow, August 9th when he appears in Buffalo, NY at Big Orbit's Soundlab (also with Dragonette).  Not enough Dan Black for your liking?  Never fear! Black will be back in October for a performance at Austin City Limits in Austin, Texas.  Let me tell you, having seen Dan Black on the All Hearts Tour with Kelis & Robyn - he does NOT disappoint! Such a dynamic live performer. Unlike some electronica artists, Dan Black can really sing. The extra bells and whistles he brings to his set only enhances the performance.

Tour Dates:

8-8/Cleveland Heights, OH/Grog Shop
8-9/Buffalo, NY/Big Orbit's Soundlab
10-9/Austin, TX/Austin City Limits

Black will also be releasing a new single, "Alone" off of ((un)) later this month.  Included in the package will be a new music video from Chic & Artistic as well as a remix from the fabulous dubstep master MJ Cole + a B-Side called "Liz and Johnny."  Check out the album artwork below.

Check out Dan Black on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//VEVO

Robyn Unveils Body Talk Pt. 2 Artwork and Tracklisting

I know this news broke a while back but I don't care. I'm seeing Robyn on the All Hearts Tour at the House of Blues on Wednesday, with Kelis, Dan Black and Far East Movement. I can HARDLY WAIT! While seeing the setlist might ruin the surprise for some, it only makes me more excited!  This tour, while still a good few weeks in advance of Body Talk Pt 2's release on September 7th, should get me good and ready for the new album.  What Robyn's doing with Body Talk is really smart!  Instead of the following the usual write-record-promote schedule that most artists follow, Robyn decided to write enough material for 3 albums and then focus on promoting all three all over the world.  It's like a never-ending pot of gold!  While I'm a little disappointed that she's only releasing one single per album (at least so far) I'm BEYOND thrilled that we're getting three new Robyn albums before the year is out. 2010 is looking to be the year of Robyn and I'll take what I can get.

Tracklisting:

1. In My Eyes

2. Include Me Out

3. Hang with Me

4. Love Kills

5. We Dance to the Beat

6. Criminal Intent

7. U Should Know Better (featuring Snoop Dogg)

8. Indestructible (Acoustic Version)

Check out Robyn on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//VEVO

Dan Black To Release New Single In August, Tours with Robyn and Kelis

Thanks to Pop In Stereo for delivering THIS bit of good news. Looks like Dan Black's NEW U.S. single will be...TAH DAH! "Alone." The song was originally released as a single in the UK back in 2008 and is now being released as Black launches his career as an international recording artist.  According to Pop In Stereo, the single will be released in mid-August with a new video by Chic & Artistic (the genius behind Black's last video for "Symphonies"), a remix by the legendary MJ Cole and a B-Side called "Liz And Johnny."

Black's last single, "Symphonies" peaked at #34 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.  Make sure you check out the remixes from Dada Life, Chris Lake, Passion Pit and Gigi Barocco.  I am excited to see Black open up for Kelis and Robyn on the All Hearts Tour next week, alongside Far East Movement. Should be a SPECTACLE of a show. While we're waiting for this next single, check out Dan Black on tour if you can.


All Hearts Tour w/ Robyn & Kelis:
7/22  Solana Beach, CA/Belly Up Tavern
7/23  Los Angeles, CA/The Music Box
7/24  San Francisco, CA/Mezzanine
7/27  Boston, MA/House of Blues
7/30  Toronto/The Molson Amphitheatre
7/31  Montreal/Osheaga Festival
8/2   Washington, DC/9:30 Club
8/3   Philadelphia, PA/The Trocadero
8/4   New York, NY/Webster Hall
8/5   New York, NY/Webster Hall

Lollapalooza:
8/7   Chicago, IL/Lollapalooza Festival

w/ Dragonette:
8/8   Cleveland. OH/Heights Grog Shop
8/9   Buffalo, NY/Big Orbit's Soundlab

Check out Dan Black on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//YouTube//Twitter

Dan Black & Kid Cudi Reinvent the Symphony

How exciting is this? One of my favorite imports, Dan Black, has gone into the studio with another major talent, Kid Cudi, to record a remix of Black's single "Symphonies." Not sure when this new remix will be available commercially, but you can listen to it on The Hype Machine now (the album version is available to download on iTunes now). You can also watch the new video with Kid Cudi, which premiered this evening on IFC. This remix is pretty dope, if I don't say so myself and I am LOVING the video, which was directed by Chic and Artistic. Another fun fact worth noting, according to ArjanWrites, the song features orchestral samples of the 1984 film score to John Carpenter's Starman. Arjanwrites is also letting you lovely people download the track for free. How nice of him. Check it out! The physical U.S. release of Dan Black's masterpiece will be available sometime in March.

Don't forget to check out Dan Black on his North American Tour this month.

February 18 - Mercury Lounge - NYC (w/ Free Blood)
February 19 - Foufounes - Montreal
February 20 - Wrong Bar - Toronto
February 22 - 91X/710 Beach Club - San Diego
February 23 - Dim Mak/Cinespace - Los Angeles
February 24 - KROQ/Spaceland - Los Angeles
February 25 - Popscene/330 Ritch - San Francisco (w/ Free Energy)

Check out Dan Black on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//YouTube//Twitter

So behind...

Oi Oi Oi! I'm so behind. Well isn't this the UNDERSTATEMENT of the year (so far). I've been running around like crazy. Who knew I was such the social butterfly? While some of my unintentional blogging hiatus can be explained by my social schedule, a lot of it can be explained by pure laziness. I've been in a bit of a funk lately and understandably so. When I'm not surrounding myself with friends, I'm lazing about the apartment, catching up on the TIVO and yes...listening to music. YES! I said it. I've been listening to music. Writing about music...that's another story.

My goal for this upcoming weekend is to give my blog some LONG-OVERDUE TLC. I have a crap-ton of stuff to talk about (some of which is probably irrelevant by now), including this Sunday's Grammy Awards - which I will definitely be watching, although probably not live. At any rate - the stack of CDs above are all waiting for me to review. Many of them I purchased myself, some of them were sent to me. All of them I enjoy immensely. I'll give you a rundown some of my early favs from the stack (in no particular order). *NOTE* Keep in mind that many of these are already "old news." I'm well aware but I think they are still worth a listen.

Owl City - Ocean Eyes
Not sure if it's the infectious synth beats or the cute/emo lyrics but I LOVE Adam Young/AKA Owl City. - Fav Tracks - "Hello Seattle," "Dental Care," "Umbrella Beach," "Fireflies"

Dragonette - Fixin' To Thrill
Is it too late to jump on the bandwagon as a Dragonette fan? Vocalist Martina Sorbara is AMAZING. - Fav Tracks - "Fixin' To Thrill," "Pick Up The Phone," "Okay Dolore"

Dan Black - ((Un))
I've been raving about this guy FOREVER it seems. His album is finally being released in the states. First U.S. single "Symphonies" is available now digitally. - Fav Tracks - "Symphonies," "U + Me =," "Alone," "Wonder"

Frankmusik - Complete Me
Not only is Frankmusic DREAMY & British, but he's got a sweet, soulful voice that sounds like PERFECTION over driving electro-pop beats. I also need to get the acoustic version of his debut album, Complete Me. - Fav Tracks - "Better Off As 2," "Confusion Girl," "When You're Around," "3 Little Words"

David Homyk - True Story
David Homyk is an up and coming singer/songwriter/producer. His STUNNING debut album True Story is beautiful. This guy has skills. He has the talent to become huge. - Fav Tracks - "Hard To Make A Friend," "Fool In The Middle"

Paloma Faith - Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful?
Another artist I've been raving about for months - Paloma Faith is a former burlesque performer, turned singer/songwriter. She's got the look and the pipes to match. - Fav Tracks - "Stone Cold Sober," "Do You Want The Truth or Something Beautiful?" "Upside Down," "New York," "Smoke & Mirrors,"

Rihanna - Rated R
Upon my first listen, this album depressed me. Now, it seems more relate-able. Perhaps that's the sadness in my heart speaking - but hey - you gotta listen to your heart. Ri-Ri's new album has really grown on me. - Fav Tracks - "Cold Case Love," "Hard," "Rockstar 101," "Russian Roulette," "Fire Bomb," "Photographs"

Katharine McPhee - Unbroken
I've loved Katharine McPhee since Idol. In fact, I voted my ass off for her that season. While I liked a couple songs off of her debut, THIS was the album she was born to make. The more mature style and sound really suits her well. - Fav Tracks - "Had It All," "Say Goodbye," "Faultline," "Lifetime," "Brand New Key"

Dionne Bromfield - Introducing Dionne Bromfield
When I heard that Amy Winehouse had started her own record label and signed her God Daughter as it's first artist, of COURSE I was skeptical. Then I heard the young Dionne Bromfield sing and all traces of skepticism were gone. This girl has a voice WAY beyond her years. - Fav Tracks - "Beachwood 45789," "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "My Boy Lollipop," "Mama Said"

Ke$ha - Animal
This album is the perfect summer album my sad, grey winter needed. Enough said. - Fav Tracks - "Tik Tok," "Blah Blah Blah," "Boots & Boys," "Take It Off," "You're Love Is My Drug," "D.I.N.O.$.A.U.R.," "Back$tabber," "Stephen"

Oh...before signing off - go check out Masterbeat. They are giving away a free 6 remix sampler from Island/Def Jam. The offer expires on February 1st so hurry up! Masterbeat is one of my top resources for CD quality official dance remixes. Included on the sampler are remixes from Mariah Carey, Rihanna, The Bravery, Utada, the Noisettes and Taio Cruz. Go Go Go and I'll do some more updates this weekend.

P.S. - make sure you're following me on Twitter. Lots of music tweets (and Re-Tweets).

Dan Black Announces 5 City North American Tour, Releases ((un)) Stateside

I've been music crushing on Dan Black since this summer when I first heard a snippet of his Notorious B.I.G./Rihanna-sampling smash "HYPNTZ." Turns out that posting that track on MySpace was quite the smooth move for Black, who prior to this album was an unsigned talent banking on his Internet following. Since then of course his major label debut album ((un)) was released in Europe and I subsequently snatched it right up and me and Dan Black have been living in sonic bliss ever since...at least through my iPod headphones.

A labor of love, Black wrote and wrote some more. The stand outs in the batch would ultimately make it onto the album, including "Life Slash Dreams," "Wonder," and "U + Me =." "HYPNTZ," was replaced by "Symphonies" at the last minute, as Notorious B.I.G.'s camp wouldn't allow Black to sample the lyrics from "Hypnotize." Finishing the album off in Paris, after being signed, Black worked it out, making sure that every track was to his liking. As far as the title goes, Black describes the album as "an album of opposites." "I like the idea of the u and the n being the same as each other, only upside down," he says. "It's also the perfect prefix; I wanted this album to be un-rock, un-hip hop, un-everything."

As if things could get any better, I received word a couple of weeks ago that Dan's debut album would be released stateside. Of course, I had lost all hope when I saw ((un)) appear on iTunes as a digital download. I got a little more hopeful when I saw "Symphonies" featured as the iTunes free Single of the Week in the U.S. I decided to inquire through Twitter about a physical release and learned that it was due for release February 23rd! SQUEEEEE!! While, yes, it's true that more and more European artists are gaining notoriety here in the States, what's more exciting to me is the shifting of the music climate here in the states. While Urban/Hip Hop and country do still dominate the U.S. charts, more and more pop/electro/dance artists are creeping in, more so from across the pond.


To help promote ((un))'s February 23rd release here in North America, Dan Black will be going on a short 5 city North American Tour, hitting New York City, Montreal, Toronto, Los Angeles and San Francisco. How exciting is this! Too bad he's skipping Boston this time around, but perhaps I can get in to see him in either New York or Montreal? I have connections in both cities. Even if I miss out seeing him live, I'm elated that other music-fans will get the chance to hear this guy. He's super talented...and super cute (an added benefit).

((un)) is a brilliant album (even sans "HYPNTZ") "inspired as much by Black's love for the 'transcendent, emotional wonder' of acts like Nick Drake and Sigur Ros as it is fueled by his passion for the hip hop production of J Dilla, Flying Lotus and Timbaland.'" Strings + hip hop beats + electro rhythms = Dan Black's brilliant debut album. Go out and get it February 23rd! Watch this space for a proper album review as well as some new and exciting Dan Black news.

Here are the tour dates and venues for Dan Black's Spring Tour:

February 18 - New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge
February 19 - Montreal, QC @ Belmont
February 20 - Toronto, ON @ WrongBar
February 23 - Los Angeles, CA @ Cinespace
February 25 - San Francisco, CA @ Popscene / 330 Ritch

Check out Dan Black on the web:
Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//YouTube//Twitter

My Weekly Last FM Chart

Here it goes...my most listened to artists and songs of the past week according to my Last FM chart.

Most Listened To Artists:

1. Regina Spektor

2. Dan Black

3. VV Brown

4. Jordin Sparks

5. Amy Winehouse

I listened to Regina Spektor a lot this past week. As I mentioned in my little review, her album is pretty damn amazing. From the songwriting, to the melodies and instrumentation - Far is just a solid record through and through. Dan Black's album is also solid, although completely different. It's up-tempo electro-pop and I'm hooked on two tracks in particular: "Symphonies" and "Alone." VV Brown - love her. Enough said. Jordin Sparks - hmm...well the new album leaked. It's coming out on Tuesday and I plan to pick it up for sure. It's a solid pop album with lots of good hooks. Amy Winehouse...I saw some pictures of her online, showing her looking better than she has recently...and there was a glimmer of hope. Her first two albums are so nearly perfect...I really shouldn't need an excuse to listen to them.

Most Listened To Songs:

1. Regina Spektor - Laughing With

2. Dan Black - Symphonies

3. Shakira - She Wolf

4. Regina Spektor - Blue Lips

5. Dan Black - Alone

Spektor's single "Laughing With" is so good. It pulls at my heart, which isn't necessarily something I want to show while at work. There was just something so mesmerizing about her voice...perhaps it's her soft-spoken tone or perhaps it's her slight accent...whatever it is I can't get enough. "Symphonies" isn't as good as "Hypntz" would have been but it's pretty darn close. "She Wolf" has been growing on me since day one. I love the "Aaaoooo" in the chorus and the fierce electro-beat is insane. Can't wait to hear some remixes for this track, although I don't know if we even need any. "Blue Lips" is another Regina song that hit a chord. Then again, if you'll look at my top 20 you'll see that virtually every track from that album is on there.

New Music Tuesday: VV Brown, Dan Black & More

And I wonder where all of my money goes...in addition to dropping just over $100 on that Girls Aloud Singles Boxed Set, I bought some full length albums as well this week. Here's the rundown...

Regina Spektor - Far: I love, love LOVE this album. I really got hooked on Regina Spektor with her commercially successful single "Fidelity" (another thank you owed to "Grey's Anatomy") but I went back and started listening to some of her older stuff as well. I liked it. While I still prefer Begin To Hope, to previous effort, Soviet Kitsch - Far may be my new favorite. I was surprised to read that Jacknife Lee produced a few tracks on the album. Why surprised? Because I knew Jacknife Lee as a remixer only! He did remixes for Christina Aguilera's "Can't Hold Us Down," Pink's "Just Like A Pill" and U2's "Vertigo" to name a few.

Top Tracks: "Laughing With," "Wallet," "One More Time With

Feeling," "Dance Anthem Of The 80's"

Check Out Regina Spektor on the web: Official Site//MySpace//YouTube

VV Brown - Travelling Like The Light: [SEE PREVIOUS POST FOR FULL REVIEW] I ordered the debut album from British artist VV Brown on Monday morning from CDWOW, in addition to two other CDs.

Top Tracks: "Shark In The Water," "Crying Blood," "L.O.V.E.," "I Love You"

Check Out VV Brown on the web: Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Bebo//YouTube//Twitter

La Roux - Self Titled: As for La Roux, I don't know much about them, other than what I've read and what I've heard. I know I love singles "In For The Kill," "Quicksand," and "Bulletproof," as well as all of the associated remixes. I also know that I love Elly Jackson's vocals and personal style. Finally...I know that I'm disappointed that La Roux isn't coming to Boston as part of their small U.S. tour. My hope is that this tour is just a small teaser and that they will be back. Next single in the UK is "I'm Not Your Toy," and I'm looking forward to familiarizing myself with that track as well as the rest of the album.

Check out La Roux on the web: Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//YouTube

Dan Black - ((Un)): You've heard me rave about Dan Black as well. Well, truth be told, other than this online sampler that's been floating around (including the now defunct single "Hypntz" - a cover of Notorious B.I.G.'s "Hypnotize") and clips of his new single "Symphonies," I don't know the first thing about Dan Black! I know he's cute and talented. I also know that I like his style of electro-pop and that he has HUGE remix potential. He kind of reminds me of Sam Sparro, another electro-pop artist that I enjoy. Like La Roux, Dan Black is another artist I am looking forward to familiarizing myself with. Check out previous singles "Alone," "Yours" and the acoustic version of "U + Me =". Order the album HERE.

Check out Dan Black on the web: Official Site//MySpace//YouTube//Twitter

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AND THERE'S MORE...on iTunes today I purchased the new Shakira single "She Wolf," the long-awaited digital remix EP of "It's Your Love" from Melinda Doolittle, "First Train Home" from Imogen Heap and a couple "Love In July" remixes by Sally Shapiro.

What a week! And it's only Tuesday! Ha! I think I'm good for a little while...at least until the new Jordin Sparks album drops on July 21st.

Any other new music I should check out?

My Favorite Music Videos RIGHT NOW!

So, I'm not ashamed to admit it...the disposable income I do have goes to music AND the occasional music video, which I then put onto my iPod for some enjoyment on the T(rain). Here are some of my favorite music videos of the moment.

• Pitbull - I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho) - Dirty, slutty good fun. The song is a bit overplayed right now, but this is my late-discovery. This is my walking around the city jam.

• VV Brown - Shark In The Water - I've talked about this girl before, but I can't stop raving! Her album is out in the UK soon and this is her latest single. She looks stunning in the video!

• Lady Gaga - Paparazzi - One word...E-P-I-C!!

• Cobra Starship feat. Leighton Meester - Good Girls Go Bad - Fun little peak at what Leighton Meester's debut album is going to sound like. Plus Gabe Saporta from Cobra Starship is mighty cute.

• Paradiso Girls feat. Lil Jon & Eve - Patron Tequila - Fabulous, fun summer pop. The girls look hot as ever.

• The Killers - Dustland Fairytale - Brandon Flowers = SEX

• Wale feat. Lady Gaga - Chillin' - Love Gaga in anything.

• La Roux - Bulletproof - If you haven't heard of La Roux yet, CHECK them OUT NOW. They are a new act out of the UK and they're doing a small U.S. tour this summer.

• Pussycat Dolls - Hush Hush; Hush Hush - Call me gay (I am gay), but I love me some PCD. This song is plenty of fun and the girls look amazing.

• Freemasons feat. Sophie Ellis-Bextor - Heartbreak (Make Me A Dancer) - Sophie has been my girl ever since I saw the video for "Murder on the Dancefloor."

• Gossip - Heavy Cross - Two words...Beth Ditto!

• Dan Black - Symphonies - Wish he was able to release his cover of Biggie's "Hypnotize," but this is a suitable replacement single.
  
  

• Paloma Faith - Stone, Cold Sober - Beautiful video, beautiful girl.

• Jordin Sparks - Battlefield - Video is a little boring, but the song is still ace in my book.

• Tinchy Stryder feat. Amelle Berrabah (of the Sugababes) - Never Leave You - Loved his song "Take Me Back," as well as his follow up single "Number 1." This one isn't as good as it's predecessors, but I do love me a featured vocal by a Sugababe.

• Frankmusik - Confusion Girl - Love this dude! Can't wait to get his album. It's going to be fantastic! I love the appearance in the video from Aussie singer/actress Holly Valance.

• David Guetta feat. Kelly Rowland - When Love Takes Over - Holy dance hit! Congrats to Kelly, who, although was dropped from her label recently, collaborated with dance genius David Guetta and put out this number 1 dance hit!

• Daniel Merriweather - Red - Beautiful song. Beautiful man.
• Lily Allen - Fuck You (Explicit) - Hilarious video.

Most Anticipated Summer Albums

Here it goes, my most anticipated albums of the next couple of months. If there's an album that I've missed or if you have a suggestion, feel free to leave me a comment! I'm always up for hearing new music.

June

Daniel Merriweather - Love & War (June 1st)

Aussie pop star Daniel Merriweather is poised to release his second solo album (the first of which was never released) on June 1st in the UK. The record contains the UK top 10 hit "Change," as well as his current single, "Red." I first heard Merriweather's vocals on Mark Ronson's fabulous "Stop Me," followed by an appearance on Wiley's single "Cash In My Pocket." I'm glad he's now in the spotlight, as he truly has a fantastic voice and he's super cute to boot.

Check out Daniel Merriweather on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/Twitter/Bebo/YouTube

Little Boots – Hands (June 8th)

British electropop artist Little Boots releases her debut album on June 8th. I first heard her on a remix of her first single "Meddle" and was instantly intrigued. I then heard her doing an acoustic version of Kid Cudi's "Day 'N' Nite." Brilliant. Her new single "New In Town" is equally amazing, as is the Fred Falke remix. Written in LA with Greg Kurstin and Joe Goddard I'm still hoping this one gets a U.S. release. U.S. TV host Carson Daly did an entire show dedicated to her and she made an appearance at the prestigious SXSW festival in Texas, so hopefully this is a good sign for us U.S. fans.

Check out Little Boots on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/YouTube/Twitter

Black Eyed Peas - The E.N.D. (The Energy Never Dies) (June 9th)

I've never been a huge Black Eyed Peas fan, in fact I never really listened to them before Fergie joined the group. Their upcoming album, released Stateside on June 9th (June 8th in the UK) appears to be right up my alley. The electro-infused hip hop beats that make up first single "Boom Boom Pow" marks a new direction for the band. I don't know how die hard fans of the Peas like the new sound, but to me, it's a sound that's very fresh and Euro. Follow up single " I Gotta Feelin'" produced by David Guetta sounds a little bit too pop for my liking, while digital only release "Imma Bee" follow more closely in style to "Boom Boom Pow." "Alive" will be released as another digital-only single on May 26th. We'll see what the E.N.D. result will be. I'm optimistic.

Check out the Black Eyed Peas on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/ILike

Gossip - Music For Men (June 23rd)

This marks the major label debut for the U.S. Indie Rock group Gossip. The group's fourth album comes out in the UK on June 22nd and the next day in the U.S. While they've traditionally had more success in the UK, with some proper promotion, they could do well in the U.S. Backed by a strong gay following, the groups most popular single, "Standing In The Way of Control" was all about gay marriage. On my last trip to the UK I picked up the album of the same name as well as an EP of dance remixes from that album. Good stuff. "Heavy Cross" is the first single off this new album, available on iTunes now.

Check out Gossip on the web: Official Site/MySpace/YouTube

Regina Spektor – Far (June 23rd)

I admittedly only recently joined the Regina Spektor fanclub, namely after her song "Fidelity" became well known here in the states and "On The Radio" appeared on an episode of "Grey's Anatomy." Since then, I purchased her last album Begin To Hope and as a result, have 2 new favorite tracks - "Samson," & "Better." I'm sad that her new album hasn't really received much in the way of promotion as of yet. New single "Laugh With" barely hit iTunes with a whisper and the album is coming out next month! Her new music sounds very similar to songs on her last album, so chances are I'm going to love this new one as well.

Check out Regina Spektor on the web: Official Site/MySpace/YouTube

La Roux – La Roux (June 29th)

La Roux is the next big thing to come out of the UK. This electropop duo is made up of singer Elly Jackson and producer/co-writer Ben Langmaid. With a sound heavily influenced by by 1980s synth pop including Eurythmics, Depeche Mode, The Human League, Yazoo and Prince, La Roux brings a distinctive style to their music and I expect big things from their debut album on Polydor. So far two singles have been released, "Quicksand" and "In For The Kill" which peaked on the UK charts at number 2. Third single, "Bulletproof" is released on June 15th.

Check out La Roux on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/YouTube

July

Dan Black – ((Un)) (July 6th)

Formerly part of English alternative band, The Servant, Dan Black is now a solo entity since the band split up in 2007. Black now is set to release his solo debut, ((Un)) on July 6th in the UK. The first single, "Yours" was released in fall of 2008, while follow up single "Alone" came out this past March. According to a blog post, Black was all set to film the video to his brilliant third single, "Hypnotz" (a loose cover of "Hypnotz" by the late, great Notorious B.I.G. before it was all nixed due to legal issues. Apparently, Biggie's estate wasn't allowing anyone to use Biggie's lyrics. Instead, Black wrote a new song "Symphonies" which will serve as the new single, out on June 29th. This is disappointing to me, as I loved "Hypnotz" so much. We will move forward somehow and Dan Black's album will still no doubt be brilliant.

Check out Dan Black on the web: Official Site/MySpace/YouTube/Twitter

Frankmusik - Complete Me (July 13th)

Yet another UK electropop artist for me to love - Frankmusik releases his hotly anticipated debut album on July 13th in the UK. Previously having opened for such acts as Sam Sparro and Keane and the upcoming Pet Shop Boys tour - Frankmusik is ready to explode onto the scene. Both a remixer and a writer, he's completed remixes for Alphabeat, Pet Shop Boys and Mika. He's also working with Holly Valance. His next single, "Confusion Girl" looks to be a hot one just as previous singles "3 Little Words" and "Better Off As Two" were.

Check out Frankmusik on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/Twitter/YouTube

VV Brown - Travelling Like The Light (July 20th)

I'm so excited for this album, I can hardly contain myself! Everything about VV Brown is just so infectious! Her voice, her sense of style, her pure talent - everything! I wish this album was coming out now! From promotional single "Crying Blood," to her first official release "Leave!" and upcoming single "Shark In The Water" - everything this lady puts out is pure genius. Her music has a little bit of everything - soul, rock, pop, electronica - it's the perfect mix!

Check out VV Brown on the web: Official Site/Blog/Facebook/Bebo/YouTube/Twitter

Jordin Sparks – Battlefield (July 21st)

This American Idol knows how to churn out the hits, as evidenced by all three singles off her last album hitting the top 20 on Billboard's Pop and Hot 100 charts. Her new single co-written by OneRepublic's Ryan Tedder is already doing well on the digital charts and is officially released to radio this week. Sparks just announced via Twitter that the album will be released on July 21st and that the video for "Battlefield" is near completion. Her new album features contributions from hitmakers like Stargate, Dr. Luke, Max Martin, Claude Kelly, Lucas Secon, Toby Gad, and Jesse McCartney. This album is going to be epic!

Check out Jordin Sparks on the web: Official Site/MySpace/Facebook/Twitter/YouTube

The Ting Tings Rock Boston & Some Other Music News

Got back from the Ting Tings performance at the Paradise in Boston. Amazing show. Of course, it was too short but all in all a BLAST. They performed all 10 songs from their debut album We Started Nothing and did it well. Katie White has quite the set of pipes, and her partner in crime, the scrumptious Jules DeMartino was quite awesome on backing vocals, percussion and everything else he did. Good show!

Photos by Me (Poor Quality, I have an unsteady hand)

Set List

We Walk
Great DJ
Fruit Machine

Keep Your Head

Traffic Light

Be The One

We Started Nothing

Shut Up & Let Me Go

- ENCORE -

Impacilla Carpisung

That's Not My Name

Photo from Dan Black's Official Site

I've been flaky with my blogging lately. Apologies. I've been listening to tons of new music. Really excited about this new FANTASTIC artist, Dan Black. He just released a single over in the UK called "Alone" (no...not the Heart classic) but my absolute FAVORITE song so far is his take on "Hypnotize" by Notorious B.I.G. It's dope! He's performing at the Camden Crawl in London April 24 & 25th - which coincidentally - is when I'll be in London. I'd love to see him live (or at least pick up his single). Follow him on Twitter @Dan__Black.

Check out:

Hypntz

Alone

Yours

Album Artwork From Mandy Moore's Official Site

Mandy Moore's new website has officially launched, and she's now on Twitter @TheMandyMoore. Her single, "I Can Break Your Heart Any Day Of The Week" is a fun little romp of a tune and her voice sounds better than ever. Pick it up on iTunes today! I can't wait to hear her new album, Amanda Leigh, which comes out in May.

Album Artwork Courtesy of Coverlandia

Finally tonight (cause it's LATE), ArjanWrites posted the Tommie Sunshine remix to Kelly Clarkson's "My Life Would Suck Without You." It's a pretty hot remix. Sunshine typically adds a hot beat to rockier from groups like The Sounds, Fall Out Boy and Gossip. This is definitely a surprise for me. I'm glad the remixes are finally coming out. Her new single is "I Do Not Hookup" and it too is a jam. Check out the Tommie Sunshine remix here.